News and Media
18/01/2012
CBP Posts Overview of IPR Enforcement as a Priority Trade Issue
U.S. Customs and Border Protection has posted an overview of its Intellectual Property Rights Enforcement Priority Trade Issue (PTI). CBP states that the trade of counterfeit and pirated goods threatens the U.S. innovation economy, the competitiveness of U.S. businesses, the livelihoods of U.S. workers, and, in some cases, national security and the health and safety of consumers.
Therefore, stopping the flow of fake goods is a priority for the U.S. government.
There are currently eight PTIs designated by CBP, including: (i) agriculture programs; (ii) antidumping and countervailing; (iii) import safety; (iv) intellectual property rights; (v) penalties; (vi) revenue; (vii) textiles; and (viii) trade agreements.
CBP has targeted and seized an increasing number of counterfeit products that pose safety threats to U.S. consumers, infrastructure, and potentially security.
These products range from:
- electrical articles such as power cords and lights that can catch fire or shock consumers
- batteries that may explode or leak mercury,
- personal care items such as toothpaste and shampoo that may contain harmful bacteria,
- computer network components and semiconductors that can cripple infrastructure vital for national security.
Additionally, trade in these illegitimate goods is associated with smuggling and other criminal activities, and often funds criminal enterprises.
CBP's strategic approach to IPR enforcement is multi-layered and includes seizing fake goods at U.S. borders, pushing the border outward through audits of infringing importers and cooperating with international trading partners, industry, and other government agencies to enhance these efforts.
To view CBP document on IPR Priority Trade Issue click on the following link.
